The Best Online Language Learning Programs

Learning a foreign language begins by learning a single vocabulary word, often via online language learning programs.

Whether you’re trying to improve skills for work, enhance your travel abilities, or just activate new parts of your brain, learning a foreign language is a valuable skill.

Some might argue that the best way to learn a new language is to take a class or to fully immerse yourself in another country. These might be great methods for growing your language ability, but they just might not be possible for everyone. In that case, online language learning may be the perfect route to go.

If you’re looking to learn, practice, or perfect a new language, here are some places you can start:

Rosetta Stone

One of the most popular online language learning programs is named after the artifact that helped historians translate ancient languages. Rosetta Stone may be one of the most well-known options on the market.

This software offers 28 different languages and uses short lessons that can be completed every day. Overall, it’s an easy-to-use system that gives you opportunities to read, write, speak, and hear your new language. Rosetta Stone starts at $7.99 a month or can be purchased for life for $199.

Babbel

According to several major world religions, the Tower of Babbel is where mankind was divided into various languages. The Babbel software represents this story well. While it only offers 14 different languages, Babbel focuses on teaching words and phrases that you’re likely to actually use. You have several subscription options to consider, between $6.95 and $12.95 per month.

Memrise

Learners who typically study with flashcards, repetition, and practice love the Memrise platform. This online language learning software gives you access to 16 different languages. Memrise is especially powerful for those who aren’t looking to start from scratch. Signing up is easy, and memberships start at $6.67 per month or a one-time fee of $119.99.

Duolingo

Duolingo may be one of the newest language systems out there, but it’s gaining in popularity. The zero-dollar price tag for the basic program might be why. Where this software really sticks out is its intuitive apps for Android and Apple phones. Users who want to skip the ads and unlock a variety of new courses can opt for the Plus membership at $6.99 per month.

Busuu

Busuu is another newcomer that offers a free level of membership. Its claim to fame is how in-depth the material goes for each of its 12 available languages. If you’re starting from complete scratch, Busuu is a great option. The $9.99 premium membership gives you access to native speakers for online practice and official certificates as you complete courses.

Personalize Your Online Language Learning Course

While this list only contains five of the most popular language-learning courses online today, there are plenty of other apps, websites, and programs out there that can help you perfect a foreign language. Most systems offer a free trial or have a host of reviews available to help you make your decision.

Learning a new language takes time. With these amazing online language learning programs, there’s no better time to start than right now.